Open control platform allows the use of first-choice programming tools and smart devices

RS Components has introduced the first PLC to be based upon Phoenix Contact’s PLCnext Technology open control platform. Targeted at distributed modular control applications in industrial automation and machine building research, the new system blends the robustness and security of a classic PLC with the openness and flexibility of IIoT smart devices. The first device available from RS, designated the AXC F 2152, features a high-performance dual-core 800MHz ARM Cortex processor with 512MByte of memory. Housed in a rugged, compact 127mm x 45mm x 75mm enclosure, it also incorporates an OPC UA server, diagnostic loggers, Fieldbus manager, trace controllers, and automatic access to Phoenix Contact’s direct cloud connection, known as Proficloud. The device is based on an embedded Linux architecture, expanded to include real-time capability in its core. Linux is stable, supports secure communications and, because it runs on many different hardware platforms, enables scaling and use of future processor architectures. The PLCnext Engineer engineering software platform uses automation modules and object-oriented programming to give a single optimised user interface for all engineering tasks, saving time and cost on both training and project work. Consistent operation worldwide is assured by IEC 61131-3 compliance, while functional safety programming is certified in accordance with IEC 61508.